Summer or Midsummer?

Midsummer Dance (by Anders Zorn)

If it’s been feeling like summer for quite some time now, that might be because our calendar is skewed.

Summer in the ancient world often began on May 1^st (otherwise known as May Day or Bealtaine).  The summer solstice therefore marked “Midsummer,” and autumn began on August 1^st  (also known as Lughnasadh).  Winter then began on November 1^st (All Saints Day), and Spring around February 1^st (Imbolc).

These ancient seasons seem more in tune with the Northern Hemisphere’s natural world than our current ones.  In early August, plants begin their colorful pageant – and in early November, there’s a decided nip in the air.  Early February often brings a welcome thaw, along with the hearts and flowers of budding romance.

Many still recognize this time of year as “Midsummer” and celebrate it with “bonfires, feasting and merrymaking.”  Some even pursue a Midsummer Night’s Dream (or two). 

Resources

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midsummer

Copyright June 21, 2018 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved